Venezuelan Motorcyclist Gets 2 Years for Gun & Border Run

BURLINGTON, VT – Julio Cesar Romero-Paredes, 47, a citizen of Venezuela, is headed to federal prison after a brazen attempt to bypass border security and a disturbing cache of weapons was discovered during a traffic stop. Romero-Paredes was sentenced to 24 months’ imprisonment by United States District Judge Mary Kay Lanthier on August 27, 2025, following a guilty plea to charges of illegal entry into the United States and possession of a firearm while illegally present.

The incident unfolded late on the night of November 7, 2024, near the Haskell Library in Derby Line, Vermont. According to court records, Romero-Paredes recklessly drove his motorcycle *around* barriers intended to secure the border. Alert United States Customs and Border Protection Officers quickly intercepted him as he continued southbound on Interstate 91. What followed was a discovery that painted a picture far beyond a simple border violation.

A thorough search of Romero-Paredes and his motorcycle revealed a disturbing arsenal. Law enforcement recovered a Walther .22 caliber pistol, multiple magazines for the weapon, a suppressor – silencing device – and approximately 50 rounds of .22 caliber ammunition. But the firepower didn’t stop there. Officers also found roughly 30 rounds of 9mm ammunition, along with multiple knives, handcuff keys, and a collapsible baton. Romero-Paredes, when questioned, admitted he had no legal right to be in the United States.

Federal prosecutors didn’t mince words, highlighting the seriousness of the offenses. The case, handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicole Cate and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine Flynn, underscores the dangers posed by individuals attempting to circumvent immigration laws while simultaneously possessing dangerous weapons. Romero-Paredes’ actions weren’t just about crossing a line; they represented a potential threat to public safety.

“This case exemplifies the commitment of federal law enforcement to securing our borders and preventing dangerous individuals from operating with illegal firearms,” stated Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher. Drescher specifically commended the seamless cooperation between United States Customs and Border Protection and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, who jointly investigated the case.

Romero-Paredes was represented at sentencing by Assistant Federal Public Defender Carmen Brooks. While the defense presented no public statement, the 24-month sentence delivered by Judge Lanthier sends a clear message: attempting to enter the U.S. illegally while armed with a dangerous collection of weapons will be met with swift and severe consequences. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and report on further developments.